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The 1900 Galveston hurricane was the deadliest in U.S. history, killing up to 8,000 residents as the violent ocean surge swept across the Texas island city with no warning.(HISTORIC NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE COLLECTION)

Improvements in forecasting have greatly reduced storm casualties. Now, scientists are developing techniques that could save more lives by improving hurricane warnings and evacuation times critical for New Orleans.

COST OF SURVIVALNew Orleans and south Louisiana will always be vulnerable to a catastrophic hurricane, yet there are ways to make the area safer. But implementing the proposals may be prohibitively expensive.

ADVANCE WARNINGThe deadly Galveston hurricane of 1900 was a horrifying demonstration of the importance of better storm predictions.

FUTURE OF COASTAn ambitious 30-year plan would pump new life into south Louisiana's beleaguered coast and wetlands. It may be the regionís best hope for weathering major storms.

AHEAD OF THE STORMPlanning is the key to surviving a hurricane. Have a destination in mind and make arrangements for your loved ones, pets and home. Then when a storm threatens, leave.

FORUMS

Since the Katrina disaster, NOLA's neighborhood forums have been crucial in reuiniting families and neighbors, and providing vital communications.